How to Choose the Perfect Summer Hat

Nothing says summer like a great hat. With sunny patios, beach days, farmers’ markets, and weekend getaways around the corner, it's time to find the right hat for the season. At Roxann's Hats of Fort Langley, we believe the right hat should feel as effortless as the season itself. Whether you’re looking for extra sun protection or a piece that pulls your summer wardrobe together, here are a few tips for finding a hat that jives with your life and style.

Start with Sun Protection

A great summer hat should do more than look good. When shopping for sun-safe styles, look for hats with a UPF rating, which blocks up to 98% of harmful UV rays. Some excellent brands that use UPF material include Tilley, Canadian Hat, and Wallaroo.

Material and weave also matter. Tightly woven straw, cotton canvas, and denim offer stronger protection, while loosely woven styles are often better suited for fashion than full sun coverage. A simple trick? Hold the hat up to the light. If sunlight passes through easily, UV rays can too. Note: while darker shades like navy or black can feel a little warmer, they often offer better UV protection.

A Lifestyle Fit

Not every summer adventure requires the same summer hat style—and that’s part of the fun.

For beach days, boating, or lakeside afternoons, wide-brimmed hats in lightweight, quick-drying materials are ideal. Bonus points for adjustable straps on breezy days near the water. For hikes, outdoor festivals, ot long walks, you want something that breathes and wicks away moisture, keeping you comfortable in the heat. Finally, for those mimosa-filled brunch dates and shopping trips, we recommend classic fedoras, relaxed buckets, or another relaxed yet structured style. These hats exude polish without feeling overdone.

Flatter Your Face

After running the family hatelier for more than 20 years, we know how to elevate your look with the right hat.

• Round faces often suit structured crowns and medium brims beautifully.
• Square face shapes pair well with softer, rounded silhouettes.
• Oval faces can wear almost any style confidently, from wide-brimmed sun hats to crisp boaters.
• Longer face shapes tend to balance best with lower crowns and wider brims.

The best hat is the one that makes you feel confident in the moment — and every time you put it on.

Don’t Forget the Fit

Hats, especially quality hats, aren't one-size-fits-all. Measure around your head just above your ears before shopping. A hat should feel secure enough to stay in place comfortably without feeling tight or leaving marks on your forehead. If you’re between sizes and sizing up, adding a soft interior liner often creates the best fit. Many quality hats also come with adjustable interior drawstrings to customize their fit.

At Roxann's Hats of Fort Langley, we carry an array of sizes, right from XS to XXXL. Visit our boutique to see our full collection of summer hats. Your skin will thank you.